Pilot ejected before military plane crash in Beaufort Co., deputies say

BEAUFORT COUNTY, SC (WCSC) - Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort says the pilot of a jet safely ejected before the plane crashed near the air station Friday morning.

Military officials say the aircraft, a F-35B, crashed in the vicinity of Little Barnwell Island at 11:45 a.m. The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office said the crash happened near Clarnedon Road and Joe Allen Drive.

The jet was from the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing and belongs to Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501 stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, Maj. Jordan Cochran said.

The U.S. Marine pilot safely ejected from the single-seat aircraft.

He was treated for minor injuries at Beaufort Memorial Hospital, released and recovering at home, according to the military.

The Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort is asking the public to avoid the area of the crash while... — The Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort is asking the public to avoid the area of the crash while the investigation continues. (Source: WTOC)(WTOC)

There were no civilian injuries, Cochran said.

Marines from MCAS Beaufort are working with local authorities currently conducting standard mishap operations to secure the crash site and ensure the safety of all personnel in the surrounding area.

Authorities say the pilot ejected before the crash and was being checked out by EMS personnel.... — Authorities say the pilot ejected before the crash and was being checked out by EMS personnel. (Source: WTOC)(WTOC)

Air station officials are asking everyone to remain clear of the crash area while the investigation continues.

The cause of the crash is under investigation.

Due to potential hazards associated with the crash, the Coast Guard has established a temporary safety zone on the waters of Whale Branch in the vicinity of Little Barnwell Island, Long Island and Bluff Island. It’s expected to continue through Oct. 10 or until salvage operations are complete.

Copyright 2018 WCSC. All rights reserved.